How to Survive Winter in a Tent

Next, once you’ve gathered all the required supplies, you can start putting your plans in motion. Remember, having the right gear is only half the battle if you don’t know how to use it. There are many important rules of thumb, and do’s and don’ts to keep in mind after you pitch your tent. 

1. Research the typical weather conditions in the area where you will be staying. Look at the storm data for the last three years so you can plan for a worst-case scenario.
2. Notify the local park ranger so that he or she knows where you’ll be and when.
3. Remember that it is easier to stay warm than to get warm.
4. Similarly, remember that it is difficult to dry gear, clothing and equipment in a tent. It is easier to stay dry than to dry off.
5. Understand how your equipment works. For example, you can buy the most expensive hunting knife there is, but it is literally pointless if you don’t know how to keep it sharp.
6. Take proper care of your gear, even when it’s in storage. If sleeping bags are stored improperly, the insulation can become damaged and therefore less effective.
7. Build a wall of snow outside your tent to help stabilize it.
8. Melt snow whenever possible to gather water. Water bottles and canteens can be prevented from freezing by placing them next to your sleeping bag at night, keeping them relatively warm.
9. Use blocks of snow or ice to help secure your tent, as pegs and stakes alone are inadequate.
10. Do not sleep with your head inside your sleeping bag. This can cause moisture to build up inside your tent, which can subsequently freeze.
11. Know how to use your two-way radios so that you and your partner can stay in constant communication in the event you are separated.
12. Know the best way to call for help in an emergency. Ideally, have more than one way to call in case one should fail. Know how to reach a rescue team, emergency responders, the local ranger, and your family members.
13. Avoid sweating, and never go to sleep wearing damp clothes.
14. Never boil water inside your tent. This can cause condensation and moisture to build up in the tent’s interior.
15. Never cook directly inside your tent. This is particularly true if you are using a gas or propane-powered stove.
16. Stay properly hydrated, particularly during the day. Try to drink minimal amounts of water in the evening to eliminate the need to void in the middle of the night, when temperatures are at their lowest.
17. Know how to recognize the signs and symptoms of hypothermia. Symptoms include slurred speech, impaired cognitive function, shivering, difficulty breathing and a weak pulse. This is vital for both you and your partner.
18. Know what to do if you suspect you or your partner may have hypothermia.
19. Always use waterproof bags to carry and store your gear.
20. Remove any frost from your tent in the morning that accumulated overnight.
21. It is a myth that you will stay warmer if you sleep in the nude or wear light, cotton pajamas. Wear comfortable pajamas that are made from a material that is heavy enough to keep you warm, but not hot. You do not want to sweat at any point.
22. Do not ignore the need to urinate overnight. For men, you can use designated, sealed bottles for voiding. For women, there are portable funnel-like devices that can be used without having to exit the tent.
23. You do not need to keep all of your gear inside your tent with you at night, but you do need to bring inside anything that could be damaged by exposure to cold temperatures. Electronics contain delicate components that can fail if left in the freezing cold. The majority of safety devices you need to signal for help have electric components, to make sure to protect them. A good option is to store your electronics at the base of your sleeping bag, where temperatures are the warmest.